His love interests were Janice (Elaine Collins) in the first two series and Fiona (Ann Bryson) in later episodes.

The pilot episode was shown at the end of 1984 and the full series began around 18 months later. By 1987, it was shown across the UK and overseas.

It ran for six series and ended in 1991.

Bob continued: “It was my first TV writing project. I had been a writer of romantic fiction, working for DC Thomson titles like Jackie and Blue Jeans in the’ 70s.

“I went freelance and it took five years before I had the City Lights breakthrough.

“I considered myself very lucky and I attended all of the filming. The novelty and thrill never wore off.

“I was blown away by some of the guest stars we had, like Billy Connolly.

“It was fondly thought of and I’ve never had such great fun on a job before or since.”

Suzanne McLellan of the Ayr Fort Players approached her friend Dave Anderson, who put her in touch with Bob about staging The Life and Death of Willie Melvin.

She said: “Bob was more than happy to help and even gave us his original typewritten script. No one other than the original cast has performed the show, so there are big shoes to fill, but we’re looking forward to it.”